# log on

CEFR B1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/log-on
Updated: 2026-10-22

## Definition

You use this when you enter your password to start using a computer or a website. It means you are connecting to the system so you can work.

For teachers: To initiate a session with a computer system or network by providing credentials. The verb is typically intransitive or functions as part of a prepositional phrase with 'to'.

## Examples

- You need to log on to check your emails.
- Please log on to the company portal using your new password to complete the safety training.
- Users are required to log on via a secure gateway to ensure that all data transmissions remain encrypted and protected from unauthorized access.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I forgot to log on the computer." but "I forgot to log on to the computer." — The verb requires the preposition 'to' before the object representing the system or device.

## Usage notes

- Usually followed by 'to' when mentioning a specific website or system.
- Teaching tip: Compare with 'log in' and 'sign in', noting that 'log on' is very common in technical and office environments.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.